Mattapinta

Mattapinta is the Finnish term for a matte surface or matte finish, describing a non-glossy surface that diffuses light rather than reflecting it clearly. Matte surfaces are valued for their subdued appearance and reduced glare, and they can be found in various materials including paints, coatings, plastics, textiles, and printed media.

Matte finishes are produced by increasing light diffusion on the surface. This can be achieved by adding matting agents or fillers to coatings, by creating a textured or etched surface, or by selecting inherently matte materials. The result is low specular reflectivity and a softer, velvety sheen compared with glossy or satin finishes. The exact appearance depends on the formulation, substrate, and lighting conditions.

Common applications include interior wall paints, furniture and cabinetry, automotive interiors, consumer electronics casings, packaging, and printed graphics. In photography and display technology, matte finishes reduce glare and reflections, making images easier to view under varied lighting.

Advantages of mattapinta include glare reduction, the ability to mask minor surface imperfections, and a tactile, refined aesthetic. Disadvantages can include greater susceptibility to fingerprints and staining, more challenging cleaning, and sometimes less vibrant color depth or durability compared with high-gloss finishes, depending on the specific material and coating system.

Gloss measurements for matte finishes are typically low. Gloss meters assess specular reflection at standard angles (commonly 60 degrees), and matte products are categorized as low-gloss per these measurements, with exact thresholds defined by industry standards such as ISO 2813 and ASTM D523.